Payroll deduction program to benefit Bright Futures Joplin

JOPLIN, Mo. – Bright Futures Joplin recently launched Bright Futures Day, which offers Joplin Schools employees the opportunity to enroll in payroll deduction to contribute to the support of students in need.

The program will see $15,072 in contributions from Joplin Schools’ employees for the 2023-24 school year.

With a minimum contribution of $120 for the school year, participating staff received a Bright Futures Joplin t-shirt and an extra jeans day to be worn on the first Wednesday of each month– Bright Futures Day.

“Our staff are often the first to know if a child is wearing the same clothes every day, if their shoes are too small, if they need glasses, or if they’re chronically hungry,” said Bright Futures Joplin Executive Director Amanda Stone.

“They’re also the first to give a portion of their paychecks to help meet the basic needs of these students who need us most. I couldn’t be more proud to be part of this generous community at Joplin Schools.”

The funds will be used in support of food-insecure students in the Joplin School District through Bright Futures Joplin’s Snack Packs program, which provides weekend food bags, as well as helping to purchase needed clothing, shoes, coats, school supplies, hygiene items and more.

“Participating in the payroll deduction program is an easy way for me to give back to Bright Futures, an organization that helps make a very positive difference in the lives of my students,” said Irving Elementary teacher Anne Compton.

Due to the positive feedback from Joplin Schools staff, Stone said she is hoping to open Bright Futures Day up to the community soon.

Bright Futures Joplin is a nonprofit organization, which helps students achieve success by matching student needs with resources via community partnerships. Through the support of local businesses, faith-based organizations, social service agencies, volunteers and parents, Bright Futures Joplin aims to strengthen the community by facilitating a brighter future for all students.

The Bright Futures framework was started in Joplin in 2010, and has since been implemented in more than 70 communities nationwide. More details about the program and its initiatives are available at brightfuturesjoplin.org.